John Steenhuisen Thanked for Six Years of Service as Federal Leader

Statement by Jan de Villiers MP – DA National Spokesperson:

The Democratic Alliance extends our sincere gratitude to John Steenhuisen for six years of determined leadership as Federal Leader of the party.

Under his leadership, the DA not only strengthened its institutional stability and electoral performance, but achieved a historic breakthrough by entering national government, a long-standing objective pursued by successive generations of DA leaders.

This achievement fundamentally reshaped South Africa’s political landscape and stands as a testament to John’s vision, perseverance, and commitment to building a viable alternative to the ANC. His leadership in initiating the Moonshot Pact laid the groundwork for the Government of National Unity and a new era of cooperative governance.

John also oversaw the DA’s electoral growth in the 2021 and 2024 elections, expanding the party’s support base and reinforcing its role as the leading opposition and reform force in South African politics.

As John now focuses fully on his responsibilities as Minister of Agriculture in the Government of National Unity; particularly in responding to the current foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, the DA thanks him for his service and leadership.

South Africa’s farmers, rural communities, and food security will benefit from the full-time attention, of Mr Steenhuisen, and we wish strength in his efforts.